Nebraska linebackers Bo Ruud and Blake Lawrence did not practice Wednesday. Ruud has been recovering from a knee injury and Lawrence an ankle injury. NU coach Callahan says their conditions will be re-evaluated Thursday.

The coaches also are still considering who will back up quarterback Joe Ganz, who's taking over for the injured Sam Keller.

Saturday, Nebraska goes up against one of the nation’s best defensive units. Kansas is ranked in the top five nationally in four defensive categories.

“They’ve been opportunistic,” said Callahan after Wednesday’s practice. “They’ve made a lot of plays off batted balls and got a lot of (interceptions). When you get on a roll and you’re playing good defense, there’s energy and guys start feeding off each other.”

Kansas is 8-0 for the first time since 1909. “I give complete respect in everything that they’ve done,” Callahan said.

“It’s hard to go 8-0. It’s awfully difficult. There are five undefeated teams in the country right now. It’s hard to do. I think we see how football has balanced out across the board. It’s anybody’s game on Saturday.”